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Oil prices jump after U.S.-Iran strikes raise Gulf tensions

financeJul 8, 202666471

Brent crude rose $1.92, or 2.6 percent, to $76.08 a barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate rose $1.82, or 2.6 percent, to $72.26 after U.S. strikes on Iranian targets and recent attacks near the Strait of Hormuz stoked supply fears. Reuters reported the price moves following U.S. military action and the revocation of a waiver that had allowed Iranian oil sales. Attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz prompted the strikes and renewed concern that retaliation could throttle energy flows through that chokepoint. Asian markets were mixed as the moves pushed oil higher and government bond prices lower, according to reporting from the Associated Press. Analysts cited in coverage warned that persistent escalation could drive prices higher still, with some commentators saying a broader conflict would push crude into the 80s or 90s per barrel. Market commentary also noted that recent gains reverse an earlier pullback after U.S.-Iran talks had briefly eased tensions. The immediate consequence is tighter market sentiment and renewed volatility for oil traders, with energy-linked assets and regional shipping routes under closer scrutiny.

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